Luan Santiago knocked out Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady at with a perfectly-timed spinning elbow to become the new Brave CF lightweight champ.
Luan Santiago regained the Brave Combat Federation lightweight belt with a highlight-reel performance at Brave CF 23, in Amman, Jordan, on April 19. In the first of three title fights held at the event, the Brazilian knocked out then title-holder Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady with a stunning spinning back elbow still in the first round of their fight.
Local TV Network AD Sports shared the moment of the knockout on their Twitter account.
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In his post-fight interview, Santiago mentioned how it was to go against a local fighter and how he managed to deal with the crowd not being on his side.
“This fight I tried to not do so much trash talking as I normally do, due to the fact that I consider Al-Selwady to be a great competitor. It was the first time that I fought someone with such immense support. Practically all of Jordan supports him. I’d like everyone to give him a round of applause. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for him, he’s done a great job with Brave.”
“I always say that Bahrain (where Brave was founded) is my second home.” Santiago continued.” And now I think I have a third home. From the moment I stepped in Jordan, everyone has been so nice and welcoming, and I’ve been blown away by the support you guys give your fighters. I would like to fight here one day again, but this time I will want you all behind me.”
Luan Santiago (13-3) is only 24 years old and had an unanimous decision win over Djamil Chan before his latest victory. Before that, ‘Miau’ lost to UFC veteran Lucas Martins in the fifth round of a title fight at Brave 11, in April 2018, when he suffered an arm injury and was rendered unable to continue, losing the belt in the process.